His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, has urged graduates of the Regional Maritime University to be disciplined, focused, hardworking, and prayerful in their pursuits if they are to achieve success. President Boakai delivered these remarks as the Commencement Speaker and Chief Guest of Honor at the 18th Graduation Ceremony of the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana on Saturday, June 29, 2024.
In his address, President Boakai emphasized the importance of character and determination alongside academic achievements. He expressed deep appreciation for institutions like the Regional Maritime University that cater to students interested in the maritime industry. He also recognized visionary leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah and John Agyekum Kufuor for their roles in establishing and advancing the university.
The President commended the university's leadership and faculty for their dedication and leadership, which have positioned it as one of Africa’s leading maritime educational institutions. He acknowledged the significance of international trade via shipping and praised the vision of RMU's five member states—Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone—for creating a regional maritime university to educate seafarers within and beyond the subregion.
“Knowing that shipping would ultimately be the primary source of international trade and commerce, there was found the need for the region and the continent to prepare for leveraging this opportunity,” he stated.
President Boakai outlined plans for collaboration between RMU in Ghana and Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) in Liberia to expand educational programs. He pledged support for expanding student accommodation facilities at RMU.
Highlighting Liberia’s position as having the world’s largest ship registry by gross tonnage, President Boakai reaffirmed maritime education's crucial role in fostering sector development. In recognition of his contributions to humanity, he was honored with a 'Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa' by RMU.
Accepting this honor, he expressed gratitude to RMU's Board of Governors, faculty, management, teaching staff, and students. Concluding his speech with congratulations to graduates and administration for their achievements, he encouraged graduates to embrace dedication, determination, confidence, courage, and a competitive spirit as they embark on future endeavors.
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